International/Global Studies at Abilene Christian University

Similar International/Global Studies programs in Texas suggest first-year earnings around $36,300, which puts this field roughly in line with state peers but behind what Texas A&M and UT-Austin graduates typically see. Abilene Christian's estimated $24,000 debt load is slightly higher than the state median of $21,500, though the 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio remains workable—you'd be borrowing about eight months of expected salary.

The challenge here is less about this specific program and more about the field itself. Across the country, International/Global Studies graduates earn a median of just under $33,000 in their first year—respectable for the humanities but tight if you're servicing substantial debt. The Texas market appears slightly stronger than the national average, which offers some advantage. However, when you're relying on estimates drawn from peer programs rather than ACU's actual outcomes, there's additional uncertainty about how this particular program positions graduates.

For parents funding a private Christian university education, the key question is whether ACU's specific approach to global studies—potentially including missions work, international development focus, or denominational connections—creates opportunities that justify the premium over public alternatives. The financial baseline looks sustainable, but you'd want to understand what distinct pathways ACU opens that you can't get at Texas State or Texas Tech for considerably less.